Learn How to Prevent Cross-Contamination in a Hospital Setting

The incidents and increased complications of diseases in hospitals continue to escalate. Cross-contamination is a concern because the spread of microorganism from room to room can rapidly become a big outbreak. Understanding the modes of prevention is vital for the success against bacteria; these responsibilities apply to everybody working and visiting a hospital. Using a good hand washing techniques, proper wear of personal protective equipment and sterilization of surgical equipments are the first line of defense in preventing cross-contamination in a hospital setting. Effective hand washing is a key against the spread of bacteria; it is an easy technique to learn and can reduce the spread of infectious diseases among patients and staff. Healthcare workers should wash their hands before and after touching a patient, or performing a procedure. It is generally best to wash hands with soap and water; always avoid touching the sink. With a clean paper towel, turn the water on, wet the hands, and apply soap rubbing them vigorously for about 20 seconds. A good technique involves emphasizing around the wrist area and under fingernails since a lot of bacteria is most likely to grow in moist and dark areas. Rinse hands thoroughly with water pointing fingers down, so water will not drip toward elbows and dry them completely using another clean paper towel, then turn the facet off. In the case that soap and water are not immediately available at a site, consider using an appropriate disinfectant cleaner. Now days there is a variety of hand sanitizers, some of them come in a form of gel, liquid, or foam. Hand sanitizers should remain on the hands for at least 20 seconds to be effective, and wash the hands again as soon as soap and water become available. Hand hygiene is the responsibility of all; it is inexpensive and is the most effective way to prevent diseases. Preventing cross-contamination includes the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) a gear is design to...